Welcome! This blog documented my my thoughts and insights as I progressed through the 4 year naturopathic medicine program in Canada and now provides some highlights of an ND's private practice. It includes links for those interested in becoming a Naturopathic Doctor as well as resources for students and patients interested in the field. My clinic is located in Airdrie Alberta.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Come out and support the graduating class of 2011 who brings you the original holiday play, Jingle Bell Rock - A CCNM Holiday Tale, on Thursday Dec. 2, 2010 and Friday December 3, 2010. Doors open at 7pm with the play starting promptly at 8:00pm (Location: Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine). Tickets on sale at CCNM for $10 in advance and $15 at the door. VIP tickets are available for $25, which includes premium seating, wine and cheese during the performance. See you all there for an epic evening of Rock and Roll and Holiday Spirit!

Monday, November 22, 2010

As my posts have slowly dwindled to a monthly endeavor, I feel the need to come clean about the toll this program has taken on my enthusiasm for extracurricular - even naturopathic related - activities. Nearly every day for the last month or so seems to be a struggle to resist burn-out. Unfortunately, it appears as if this is a common theme with this years' graduating class possibly due to several new program requirements. Even within the last week, one of my colleagues started a new club where we have the opportunity to support each other and discuss ways to make positive changes.

I met a transfer student the other day who did one year of naturopathic medicine at Bastyr University and I was surprised to hear that the students there are possibly more stressed-out than at CCNM. I didn't think that was possible! How does the school maintain enrollment? I am sure that Bastyr's campus located within a state park is helpful. The thought of a state park...as great as the Paracelsus Herb garden is, and the Don Valley located across the street from CCNM, they are not a substitute for a state park.

I think Christmas will be my solace and I am certainly looking forward to a couple of weeks of bliss away from the busyness of Toronto.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Today I took my family to the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto. It was at least 15 years since I was there last, at that time with my siblings and parents. The fair is a celebration of agriculture in Ontario where awards are presented to the finest specimens of farm produce and animals and includes a number of fantastic animal shows. Complementing the food and agricultural theme this year was the “Journey to Your Good Health” educational presentations. Although much of the fair was the same as I remembered it from years ago, I was also aware of increased visibility of natural health products slowly permeating the conventional world and was happy to see a naturopathic doctor answering questions as part of a forum of health professionals.

Remember, we vote with our dollar. So, support those small, local, environmentally conscious agricultural companies when you can - ensure they are here to stay.